Abstract

In spite of its past abuses by man, Humboldt Bay is one of the few coastal estuaries remaining in California that has not been rendered largely unsuitable for wildlife by commercial development, dredging, filling or pollution. Its importance is emphasized considering that about 65 percent of the State's original estuarine tidelands have already been destroyed. The people have demonstrated their concern for our dwindling natural resources. If we are to preserve what remains it will be necessary for the people to exercise the wisest possible use of these resources.
Because of the importance of coastal wetlands to the fish and wildlife of California, the Department of Fish and Game has initiated a high priority statewide inventory of these wetlands. This publication is an integral part of that program. It is intended as a guide for citizens, planners,
administrators and all others interested in the use and development of coastal lands and waters.
The Department has been charged with the responsibility of protecting and maintaining the fish and wildlife resources of the State. This publication is directed towards meeting
this responsibility by outlining the specific resources and recreational aspects of Humboldt Bay, elucidating problems,
and recommending courses of action for future development.
Preservation of the Humboldt Bay resources is much more than a local issue. What is done or not done here can have statewide, national and international implications. It also must be recognized that there is an obligation to future generations. Decisions made today will affect all those
who follow in our footsteps. (200pp.)